Dear Seniors,
As we move through February, I want to take a moment to reflect on the power of community, history, and shared values that guide our work every day at the Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL).
This month, we proudly celebrate Black History Month, a time to honor the generations of African American leaders, advocates, and pioneers who paved the way for progress and possibility. Many of the seniors we serve in the District lived through pivotal moments that shaped our city and our nation. Their resilience and wisdom continue to inspire our work, and it is a privilege to uplift their stories while ensuring they are seen, heard, and supported.
February is also American Heart Month, a reminder of the importance of heart health and overall wellness. Heart disease remains a leading health concern for older adults, and we encourage all District residents to take small but meaningful steps toward healthy living, whether through staying active, eating nutritious foods, managing stress, or keeping up with regular checkups. Through our programs and partnerships, DACL remains committed to promoting healthy aging and connecting seniors to resources that help them thrive. For more information on heart health, please visit dchealth.dc.gov, give us a call at 202-724-5626, or visit your nearest senior wellness center.
Speaking of the heart, I am delighted to invite you to DACL’s third annual Red, White, and You Celebration, our signature Valentine’s Day event that celebrates love, community, and togetherness. Join us for food, fun, dancing, and laughter on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. This year’s celebration will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help – Panorama Room, 1600 Morris Road SE, Washington, DC 20020. To RSVP, please visit www.tinyurl.com/DACLRWY2026.
Looking ahead, we are excited for the opportunity to share our impact and partnership with DC seniors during DACL’s FY2026 Performance Oversight Hearing with the DC Council. This hearing allows us to highlight the incredible work accomplished together over the past year and provides District seniors an opportunity to share their experiences as well. We invite you to join us on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. to testify before the Committee on Executive Administration and Labor at the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW. For questions about how to testify, please contact dacl.communications@dc.gov.
As we move forward, we remain focused on upcoming events, initiatives, and opportunities to strengthen our services, and expand our impact across all eight wards. Together, we will continue building a city where aging is not just about living longer, but living boldly with dignity, purpose, and joy.
Thank you for being a part of our community. Stay safe and warm, and we look forward to seeing you on the dance floor at Red, White, and You!
In Service,
Charon P.W. Hines
Director, Department of Aging and Community Living